Jang Shin Young has finally cleared the air on Kang Kyung Joon’s affair controversy.
While appearing on “My Little Old Boy” broadcast on October 13, Jang Shin Young talked about the husband’s affair issue which saw the actress stay away from the limelight for some months. Before touching on the issue, Shin Young confessed she was feeling anxious, especially due to the overwhelming articles that flooded media platforms before her appearance “My Little Old Boy”. Despite the confidence-stripping allegations and suspicions in the articles, Shin Young overcame the contemplating of not appearing on the broadcast.
Jang Shin Young confirmed that the husband’s controversy did hurt her and the family. Nonetheless, she considered her young children and repentant partner and chose healing over brokenness. Shin Young confessed to revealing the ordeal to her teenage son and asking him to accept her decision and help her through this recovery process.
Shin Young also confessed that over the last 10 months, after the controversy, life was difficult. Moreover, given the couple’s celebrity status, biased articles arose but the couple could not make public statements thus giving grounds for more rumors. Shin Young also confessed that she and her children had deliberately stayed away from internet platforms to work on rebuilding their family.
—-Karen Mwenda
#JangShinYoung #Actress #HusbandsAffairControversy #healing #rebuilding #JangShinYoungopensup #kcrush #koreanactress #celebrity #unfortunateaffair #ShinYoungtalks #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #marriage #marriagedifficulties #healingmarriage #workthingsout #breakingnews
Seunghan shared a handwritten letter stating that he will no longer be returning to RIIZE.
On October 13, Seunghan announced that he will not only be halting his return to RIIZE, but will be leaving the group. In a heartfelt letter, Seunghan apologized to the fans and group members for the pain and confusion caused by his actions.
A few days ago, Seunghan had confirmed that he would be returning to RIIZE after a hiatus. The hiatus was due to a controversy after Seunghan’s pre-debut photos were leaked online. After the hiatus, Seunghan apologized for damaging the team’s image and letting down the fun.
Nonetheless, some fans did not take the matter lightly causing an internet uproar. Seunghan gave in to the pressure and shared a handwritten letter indicating that he will no longer be returning to RIIZE as said earlier. In the letter, Seunghan apologized for the torment that his actions inflicted on the group members and fans as well.
Seunghan thanked the members and management company for willing to take him back despite his previous shortcomings. To avoid further rift between RIIZE and BRIIZE, the artist confirmed that he will be leaving RIIZE group.
—-Karen Mwenda
#SeunghanRIIZE #SeunghanleavingRIIZE #SeunghanwillnotreturntoRIIZE #BRIIZE #kcrush #thankedmembers #kpop #knews #kpopnews #kidol #SeunghanleavesRIIZE #kcrushamerica #Seunghanchangesmind #kcrushmagazine #breakingnews #kpopgroup #RIIZE
October girl group band reputation ranking results are out. The Korean Business Research Institute analyzed the media coverage, community indexes, consumer participation, and interactions of K-pop girl groups for the rankings. Here are the top 5 October girl group band reputation rankings.
1. LE SSERAFIM
LE SSERAFIM won this month’s rankings with a reputation index of 4,887,479. This is a 37% increase compared to their last month’s score. “Crazy” was one of the high-ranking phrases in the group’s keyword analysis. This would make sense as LE SSERAFIM’s “Crazy” comeback single in August raised the group’s Spotify monthly listeners from 11 to 15 million. As of October 11, “ANTIFRAGILE” track became the group’s 1st single to surpass 500 million Spotify streams while the “EASY” track became the 6th single to surpass 200 million Spotify views.
2. AESPA
AESPA came in second with a reputation index of 4,840,235. The recently concluded 1st leg of ‘SYNK: Parallel Line’ tour, whose 2025 US and Europe legs were recently announced, played a major role in AESPA’s ranking. Moreover, the recently released 4 solo tracks by each member as well as the highly anticipated October “Whiplash” album have contributed heavily to AESPA’s ranking.
3. IVE
IVE took the third position with a reputation index of 4,685,474. This marks a 2.83% increase from last month’s score. The group’s recently concluded ‘Show What I Have’ world tour, Karina’s appearance in Paris Fashion Week 2024, and their latest sales record-breaking ‘IVE Switch’ album have contributed to IVE’s top 3 ranking.
4. BLACKPINK
BLACKPINK came in fourth with a reputation index of 3,894,967 which marks an 87.67% increase from September’s scores. Jennie’s “Mantra” single, Lisa’s “Moonlit Floor” single, Rose’s upcoming ‘Rosie’ full-length album announcement, and Jisoo’s upcoming album teaser.
5. FIFTY FIFTY
FIFTY FIFTY took fifth place with a reputation index of 3,502,869 marking a 178.30% increase from September’s scores. The ranking was contributed to by the overwhelming fanbase excitement after the group recently reformed and returned as a quintet band. The group’s successful August comeback 2nd album, ‘Starry Night’, also helped raise the rebranded FIFTY FIFTY band’s brand ranking score.
—-Karen Mwenda
#Top5OctoberGirlGroupBandReputationRanking #kpop #koreanranking #kcrush #FIFTuFIFTY #BLACKPINK #IVY #kidol #kcrushmagazine #kfashion #kpopreputationranking #StarryNightFIFTYFIFTY #AESPA #LESSERAFIM #Crazy #Spotify #SpotifyMonthlyListens #KoreanBusinessResearchInstitute #koreanculture #koreanmusic #hallyu #girlgroupranking #korea #kcrushamericamagazine #monthlylistens #brandrankingscore
Hashtag group has disbanded after 7 years since its debut.
According to October 12th reports, Hashtag girl band bid its goodbyes to the K-pop entertainment industry. The group, which debuted in October 2017 under LUK Factory, has fought a good fight for 7 years before calling it quits. The band’s final piece was the “Diamond” single released in 2023.
Formed by Kan Mi Yeon, a former V.O.X member, Hashtag band has experienced several changes over the years. before the storms, Hashtag was a 7-member group comprising Hyunji, Sua, Seungmin, Subin, Sojin, Dajeong, and Aeji. Dajeong left the group in 2020 while Aeji left in 2023.
During their peak seasons, Hashtag also made several appearances in musical events and television shows.
The girl band had a diverse pool of dedicated fans who continued and will continue to support the group members in their future endeavors.
Despite their separation, Hashtag has left a legacy in the K-pop industry, which the fans hold dearly.
We were so happy to be given the opportunity to interview them back in 2017. Much happiness and success on the next stage of their lives. Hopefully, we will see a reunion one day in the near future.
—-Karen Mwenda
#Hashtag #Hashtagdisbands #kpop #Dajeong #Aeji #Hyunji #Sua #Seungmin #Subin #Sojin #VOX #KanMiYeon #LUKFactoroy #kpopgirlgroup #girlgroupdisbands #koreanpop #hallyu #kpopindustry #HashtagGirlgroup #kcrush #kcrushmagazine #disbandmentannouncement #koreangirlgroupdisbands #koreangirlgroupnolonger #kpopidol
In his short film Recite with Your Hands, Jazz columnist and filmmaker Jo Won-yong taps into the disconnect writers can experience when the emotions being conveyed through a piece of art seems beyond our reach. In the film, deaf literature editor Yong-in (Gong Seo-yeon) struggles to connect emotionally to a new series of poems she’s been commissioned to work on.
As a writer poetess herself, Yong-in possesses the intuition needed to understand the writing on an intellectual level, but the emotional disconnect exacerbated by writer’s block with her own poetry, causes her frustration she’s unable to shake. Desperate for a way to experience the poetry, she looks into a new way to connect with writing. Inspired by using her hands to feel the vibrations emanating from speakers when listening to music, Young-in enlists the help of a friend who reads the poems, allowing her to feel the vibrations resonating from their vocal chords.
With this film Jo Won-yong shows the audience, particularly those who are hearing, that being deaf and having a disability invisible or otherwise, doesn’t have to be an insurmountable barrier to finding new ways to share the words just at the tips of our fingers with the world. All it takes is patience, imagination, and ingenuity.
In my interview with Jo Won-yong in Jeonju City, South Korea where Recite with Your Hands at the 2024 Jeonju International Film Festival, we spoke about how creating the script and the filmmaker process differs from his work as a columnist, and how Jazz and Korean Sign Language inspired Young-in’s characterization and the tone of the film.
Editorial note: Due to copy right, the voice of the interpreter has been muted and subtitled.
Carolyn Hinds
Freelance Film Critic, Journalist, Podcaster & YouTuber
African American Film Critics Association Member, Tomatometer-Approved Critic
Host & Producer Carolyn Talks…, and So Here’s What Happened! Podcast
Bylines at http://Authory.com/CarolynHinds
Twitter & Instagram: @CarrieCnh12
#kcrush #JeonjuIFF2024 #KoreanCinema #KoreanFilm #AsianCinema #KoreanActress #InternationalFilmFestival #SouthKorea #Korea #interviewwithJoWonYong #featuredinterviews #kcrushinterviews #kcrushfilmfestivalinterview #ReciteWithYourHands #shortfilm
Rapper Jessi has shared an apology statement after one of her fans was assaulted.
According to October 11th reports, a young man was assaulted on September 29 after asking for a photo with Jessi. The reputable rapper, whose acquaintances had blocked the young fan, rudely told him off but Jessi intervened and apologized before walking away. Nonetheless, the young fan claimed that just as he was about to leave, a man approached him and suddenly assaulted him. He further claimed that Jessi did try to intervene at first but later retreated as things escalated.
Following an internet uproar connected to the incident, Jessi personally took to her social media platform to offer a statement of apology. In the October 12th statement, Jessi confirmed that indeed the young fan requested a photo but because it was late at night, she politely declined twice. The statement further highlights that after the sudden twist of events from the assaulter left Jessi in shock making it impossible to show consideration to the fan.
Jessi added that irrespective of how the incident played out, she immensely regrets not stopping the injustice act. However, she clarified that her label contacted the victim’s mother after the incident and will ensure that the victim gets the proper apology and due compensation. The rapper ended by requesting individuals and parties to refrain from perceiving this incident from a one-sided angle. Jessi’s lawyer also confirmed in a news agency that the assaulter was not part of Jessi’s entourage, but a Chinese acquaintance of Jessi’s producer friend.
—-Karen Mwenda
#Jessi #Jessiapologizedforfanassaultincident #JessiFanAssaultIncident #kcrush #kpop #kpopidol #koreanrapper #kcrushamericamagazine #youngfanassault #apology #Jesifanrequestedphoto #Jessitriedtointervene #kpopfan #koreanculture #motheroffanwascontacted #breakingnews #Jessiapologies #kcrushmagazine
The Korean Indie world is often an untapped realm. With most focus on K-pop, this genre doesn’t get as much emphasis as it warrants. A band to watch within the Korean Indie genre is orange flavored cigarettes. They came onto the scene in 2021. With a few singles and two EPs on Spotify, they’re slowly increasing in visibility. 50k+ monthly listeners will likely only keep growing, as their sound is quality. Here’s a review of some of their most popular tracks.
Their biggest single is “orange flavored cigarettes”, a track that combines complexity and simplicity. It features a laid-back beat, strumming electric guitars, and a groovy bass. The lyrics relay a relatable conundrum: Our conversation looks like that ocean//Should I stay or should I leave//I can’t see the waves//Where have all your words gone.
This track has over a million streams on Spotify and is followed by “noah”, a song on its way to a million streams, sitting at just over 500k. The song continues the groovy vibe of their title track. No doubt that they’ll be known for this sound–it’s psychedelic funk in style. Chill and dreamy, it’s the perfect music to put on in the background for studying or on a road trip.
“melting tides” is more of the smooth, chill funk vibe. The female vocals are delicate, airy, and consistent throughout. It’s the perfect pairing as it melts into the melody instead of taking a spotlight. And that’s really the point of this musical style–it allows you to drift away. It’s blissful, a safe place to rest your mind and relax. But if fans also want to focus on the lyrics, they’re easy to follow: I feel like a fool cause of you//Why do I only think of you//I feel like I’m drowning in a pool//Oh please pull me in if you feel the same way about me.
Something to note is that this band sings in all English. That’s impressive for a South Korean based indie group that primarily tours nationally and in Japan. This makes their music more accessible to a global audience. However, these tracks really don’t need to be in a particular language; they’d be enjoyable regardless because of the way the vocals melt into the songs and there’s not a heavy lyrical focus. This also helps transcend borders.
“te amo” feels very upbeat compared to other tracks. It has an 80s feel to it. The vocals are more at the forefront than any of the previous songs. “te amo” also has a surprising rhythm change mid-song. The lyrics are not safe for children or the workplace, as there are some sexual references. However, there are a few tender lines as well: Whispering in my ears//Now we have no tears//We believe in us//To the end of the world.
“pepper” is a groovy, echoey psychedelic track. I particularly liked these song lyrics the most. They’re simple like the others, but relatable. I liked the lines: When that day comes will I regret this?//Too stupid to think about that question//You know, there’s always a “but”//You can stay if you like, not too far// You can stay if you like, not too close.
All in all, orange flavored cigarettes is definitely making moves in the indie scene. Their music is easy to enjoy and will be accessible to many people. I have no doubts they’ll only continue to grow! To keep up with orange flavored cigarettes, make sure to follow them on Spotify or sign up for their newsletter on their website.
—-Ellie Boyd
#OrangeFlavoredCigarettes #KoreanIndiegroup #kcrush #watchforOrangeFlavoredCigarettes #kindie #kgroup #kband #kindiesongsinEnglish #koreanindiemusicinEnglish #OrangeFlavoredCigarettesonSpotify #kcrushamerica #noah #meltingtidesOrangeFlavoredCigarettes #kcrushrecentarticles #kcrushnews #kcrushmagazine #Koreanindie
Idol marriages have become a ceremony worth looking forward to. Here are 5 idols set to walk down the aisle this October.
Secret’s Ji Eun and Youtuber Park Wi
Actress and former Secret’s Ji Eun walked down the aisle with YouTuber Park Wi on October 9. The ceremony, held in Gangnam, was hosted by TV personality Jun Hyun Moo and entertained by performances from the K-Pop R&B diva Insoon. Through his YouTube channel, Wiracle, Park Wi inspires others through his courageous journey after an accident that left him with quadriplegia. The couple, whose love story has been a beam of hope to many, received huge support from fans across the world.
Hyuna and Yong Jun Hyung
The two K-pop idols and former labelmates shared their marriage details in July. HyunA, a former 4Minute member and currently a soloist, walked down the aisle with Yong Jun Hyung, a former Highlight member, on October 11. The couple had a private ceremony surrounded by family and friends.
Jo Bo Ah
Actress Jo Bo Ah will be getting married to her non-celebrity boyfriend this October. Jo Bo Ah made the announcement in August days after her “Knock Off” drama was revealed. XYZ Studio denied rumors of Jo Bo Ah’s pregnancy. Even after walking down the aisle, the actress promised to continue showering her fans with exceptional performances.
Jo Se Ho
Jo Se Ho will be tying the knot with his non-celebrity girlfriend this October. The comedian shared the news during an appearance on “You Quiz on the Block” talk show. This after the comedian confirmed his dating status back in January.
Moon Tae Yoo
In July, Queen of Tears K-drama actor Moon Tae Yoo shared that he would be getting married to his fiancée in early October. In a heartfelt letter, the actor shared a deep affection for his partner and praised her for making him a better person. The actor also asked fans to understand his fiancée’s privacy who prefers to stay out of the limelight.
We wish all these couples a prosperous future.
—-Karen Mwenda
#OctoberKoreanWeedings #2024KoreanWeddings #2024KpopWeedings #kweddings #kactorsweddings #kcrush #kpop #kdrama #kdramaactor #weddingsinkorea #kfashion #weddingfashion #MoonTaeYoo #kcrushmagazine #breakingnews #QueenofTears #JoSeHo #YouQuizOnTheBlock #koreancomedian #JoBoAh #HyunA #4Minute #YongJunHyung #Highlight #JiEun #Secret #ParkWi #YouTuber #marriageinoctober #Octoberweddingsinkorea #kidolsmarriages #kcrushrecentarticles
Seunghan is officially a RIIZE member again after going off the grid for 10 months.
In a hand-written comeback letter, Seunghan apologizes for having let the team down with his private life controversy. The star also confirmed that he had reflected on his actions throughout the hiatus and purposes to do all he can to redeem himself and help return the team to its former glory. Seunghan also apologized to the members, the group’s dedicated fans, and company staff as well.
On October 11, SM Entertainment also made an official statement confirming Seunghan’s return to RIIZE. In the letter, addressed to BRIIZE (RIIZE’s fan base) and all who support RIIZE, Wizard Production confirmed that indeed Seunghan was on hiatus due to his pre-debut days’ controversy. Nonetheless, the agency pleaded with the fans to give the star a chance and support the dreams of RIIZE as a whole team. Wizard Production, RIIZE group’s agency, also committed to ensuring that RIIZE repays fans and supporters with good music and performances.
—-Karen Mwenda
#Seunghan #SeunghanreturnstoRIIZE #RIIZE #SMEntertainment #BRIIZE #WizardProduction #kcrush #kpop #koreanpop #kpopidol #returningtogroup #hasreflected #returningafter10monthhiatus #kcrushmagazine #Seunghanwrotealetter #kmusic #koreanboygroupRIIZE #Seunghanhandwrittenapology
The “You’re Pitiful” hit-maker, FIESTAR, has finally reunited after 7 years thanks to Cao’s efforts.
Cao Lu
FIESTAR debuted in August 2012 under LOEN Entertainment consisting of Jei, Cao Lu, Linzy, Hyemi, and Yezi. However, the group was said to have disbanded in May 2018. All the while, Cao Lu, who was the lead dancer, vocalist, and face of the group, was not about to give in without a fight. Despite the backlash and negative comments she received during appearances after the disbandment, Cao Lu numbed the pain to achieve her mission. Seven years after disbandment, Cao Lu was able to help revive FIESTAR.
It was revealed that Cao Lu used the money she earned to help buy back the group’s “You’re pitiful” song’s copyright. In an interview with the ‘Recent Olympics’ YouTube channel, Cao Lu confirmed that though she bought back the song, all proceedings would equally be shared amongst all FIESTAR members. In a more recent interview with the ‘No Back Tak Jae Hoon’ YouTube channel in September, Cao Lu appeared alongside Yezi for the first time in years. In the interview, Cao Lu stated that she is in Korea under a Travel Visa confirming that she could engage in profit-making activities. FIESTAR made an official reunion in August 2024.
We want to say congratulations and wish them much success!
—-Karen Mwenda
#FIESTAR #FIESTARComback #CaoLu #YourePitifulsongscopyright #RecentOlympicsYouTube #Yezi #kcrush #kpop #kpopgirlgroupreturn #2024kpopreturn #NoBackTakJaeHoonYouTube #Koreangroup #kgroup #FIESTERReunion #breakingnews #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #successtoFIESTAR #happinessforFIESTAR #kcrushbreakingnews #kpopfashion #kpopmusic #kpopgirlgroupreturn #Jei #Hyemi #CaoLuhelpsFIESTARreturn
With mid-month around the corner, we have had outstanding comebacks from reputable individuals and groups in the K-pop industry so far. Some of them include CHEN (EXO) with “Beyond” MV, LEECHANGSUB with the ‘<1991>’ album, ATEEZ with the “Birthday” Japanese MV, LOCO with the” SEE YOU” farewell track to AOMG agency, BLACKPINK’s Lisa with “Moonlit Floor”, WOOOSUNG with the ‘4444’ album, and Yoon Seobin’s “Rizz” single. Below are some other notable comebacks to expect this October.
1. Jay Park
This RnB legend will make a comeback on October 8 with “Gimme A Minute” track under the album, ‘THE ONE YOU WANTED’. The track will also be featuring another RnB legend, CHUNG HA.
2. AB61X
This boy band will be releasing their 9th EP titled ‘BORN LIKE THIS’ in October 10. The album will be released 6pm KST time.
3. BLACKPINK’s Jennie
BLACKPINK’s Jennie will be releasing the highly anticipated single in October 11. The single, titled “Mantra”, is making headlines as it’s expected to launch Jennie’s solo journey.
4. SEVENTEEN
This iconic boy band is set to make a comeback in October 14. SEVENTEEN with return with their 12th mini album titled, ‘SPILL THE FEELS’.
5.CNBLUE
This pop boy band will return to the screens on October 14th with their 10th mini album. The album, titled ‘[X]’, will mark the group’s first comeback in 3 years.
6. ITZY
ITZY will make a comeback on October 15 with the “GOLD” MV and album release. This will be followed by the “Imaginary Friend” MV release in October 28.
7. KISS OF LIFE
The band will release the “R.E.M” MV and 3rd mini album, titled ‘Love Yourself’, on October 15. This will be a follow-up to the pre-release done in October 4.
8. Billlie
Billlie will return with their 5th mini album titled, ‘[appendix: Of All We Have Lost]’ on October 16. This will follow the album’s “Trampoline” MV pre-release scheduled for October 11.
9. AESPA
AESPA will make a comeback with their 5th mini album titled ‘Whiplash’ on October 21. The girl group, which recently did the “SYNK: Parallel Line” world tour, will a few days release four solo tracks performed by the members during the tour in a few days.
10. ILLIT
ILLIT will return to the spotlight with the 2nd mini album titled ‘I’LL LIKE YOU’ on October 21. Despite a previous cloud of plagiarism controversies, ILLIT is expected to set the record straight and reclaim their glory through this album.
11. PURPLE KISS
Renowned for their dancing concepts, PURPLE KISS is set to comeback with their 7th mini album titled ‘[Headway]’. The group recently finished the “2024 BXX” world tour across 18 cities in promotion of the ‘BXX’ EP released in May 2024.
12. THE BOYZ
THE BOYZ will be coming back with their 9th mini album titled ‘도화선’. The boy band recently finished the ‘ZENERATION II’ tour across the U.S.
—-Karen Mwenda
#OctoberKPopCombacks #NotableOctoberKPopComebacks #THEBOYZ #ZenerationIIWorldTour #PURPLEKISS #BXXalbum #ILLIT #ILLLIKEYOU2ndminialbum #AESPA #kcrush #kcrushamerica #kpopcombacksinOctober #kpop #kpopgroups #Billie #KISSOFLIFE #ITZY #GOLDbyITZY #CNBlue #XalbumCNBlue #SEVENTEEN #SPILLTHeFEELSbySEVENTEEN #BLACKPINKJennie #Jennie #AB61X #BornLikeThisbyAB61X #newmusic #newalbums #combacks #JayPark #GimmeAMinutebyJayPark #MantrabyJennie #TheOneYouWantedJayParkalbum #kcrushmagazine #kcrushtopentertainmentmagazine #koreansinger #koreanpop #hallyu #musicofkpopifols
Belift lab has denied claims that ILLIT girl band manager commented telling the girls to ignore NewJeans’ Hanni.
In a live broadcast on September 11, Hanni claimed that ILLIT’s manager had told one of the members to ignore her which gave room to harassment at work. Following this damaging allegation, Belift Lab, ILLIT’s agency released a statement refuting the claims.
Belift Lab claimed that such a case would never occur since ILLIT’s manager also speaks to NewJeans members in honorifics. Belift backed their claims with through CCTV footage showing an interaction between the two parties. In the CCTV, ILLIT members were seen giving a 90 degree bow greeting upon encountering Hanni in the building corridors.
However, CEO Min Hee Jin claimed that the respective video had been deleted. On their end, HYBE Entertainment’s security personnel claimed that the 30-day footage retention period was over hindering further retrieval.
—-Karen Mwenda
#BeliftLab #BeliftLabDeniedILLITsBullyingClaims #NewJeansHanni #Hanni #MinHeeJinCEO #HYBE #CCTVFootage #kpop #kpopgroup #kpopstories #kcrush #kcrushmagazine #kpopnews #ILLIT #harassment #bullyingallegations #ILLITsManager #newswithinkpop
Fans of Fromis_9 band’s Jiwon and TV personality Jun Hyun Moo have been in an internet frenzy with the rumors of the two influential figures probably dating.
This comes after Jiwon and Jun Hyun Moo were seen attending the 2NE1’s October 5th ‘Welcome Back in Seoul’. The two were reported to have had several interactions, including the ‘Idol Star Athletics Championships’.
Nonetheless, the rumors were put out after Pledis Entertainment denied them. In a comment, the agency agreed that both celebrities are close friends given that they also share the same English teacher. The agency went on to clarify that the two are just friends and are not dating.
—-Karen Mwenda
#Fromis9Jiwon #Fromis #datingrumors #JunHyunMoo #aretheydating #kcrush #PledisEntertainment #kpop #tvpersonality #kculture #JiwonandJunHyunMoonotdatingaccordingtoPledis #2NE1WelcomeBackToSeoulConcert #sameEnglishTeacher #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #breakingnews #kidolnews #whoisdatingwho2024 #IdolsStarAthleticChampionship
NCT member, Moon Taeil, has been undergoing grueling police investigations over the last few months for aggravated quasi-rape allegations.
After the August 12 police investigations, Taeil was referred to the Seoul Central District Prosecution office which is yet to officially summon him. The allegations stem from an incident in June where Taeil and two other non-idol acquaintances were accused of sexually abusing an intoxicated woman.
Despite the police investigations, SM had laid low regarding the matter even as Taeil continued his idol activities. However, SM Entertainment recently spoke on the matter stating that given the gravity of the issue, they have decided to discontinue Taeil from group activities. SM Entertainment also claimed that Taeil had also agreed to conclusions. If found guilty, Taeil could end up facing about a 7-year jail term or a life sentence.
—-Karen Mwenda
#MoonTaeil #NCT #NCTMoonTaeil #SMEntertainment #commentsonNCTTaeilsSexualControversy #kpop #kpopnews #breakingnews #kcrushamerica #kcrush #Taeilwilldiscontinuegroupactivities #sexualallegations #SeoulCentralDistrictProsecutionOffice #hasnotbeensummoned #allegations #kcrushmagazine
‘Love Next Door’ is a romantic comedy K-drama showing how fate can turn meaningless encounters into lifelong cherished moments while revolving around a childhood trios’ friendship over the years. Bae Seok Ryu is one of the trio friends whose perfect life abroad tumbles town at its peak landing her back to her village. Choi Seung Hyo on the other hand, is forced to change careers from a leg accident that happened at the peak of his career. Jeong Mo Eum is a free spirit whose obsession with superheroes lands her not only in the firefighting industry but also on a love roller coaster with a superhero reporter. Despite not having been a part of the trio’s childhood life, Kang Dan Ho ends up being entangled in the trio’s lives, especially given his great listening therapy skills.
Bae Seok Ryu (Jung So Min)
Bae Seok Ryu is a hardworking and talented being who works herself to the bone to be the best. Despite her hard work, which turns out to be a cry for attention, Seok Ryu falls from working in the best companies overseas and being engaged to being jobless and calling off her wedding. Seok Ryu, who is also severely battling post-cancer survival trauma, falls back on her two neighbors and long-lost friends for sanity and a sense of belonging.
Choi Seung Hyo (Jung Hae In)
Choi Seung Hyo is a kindhearted being whose swimming career was cut short from a lag accident in his high school years. To find meaning in life and in a bid to ease his secret childhood crush’s heart, Seung Hyo lands in the architectural field and ends up becoming one of the best in the industry. Behind the kind heart and heart-melting smiles, Seung Hyo hides lifelong scars from his parents’ unsettling relationship. Things get tricky when her secret childhood crush slides back into his neighborhood single after calling off her marriage.
Jeong Mo Eum (Kim Ji Eun)
Jeong Mo Eum is a dedicated, lively, and outgoing being who is not shy about speaking her mind. Because of her childhood obsession with superheroes, Mo Eum finds herself in the firefighter’s field. Her unquenched obsession with superpower beings also spills over into her love life making finding a superhero partner a lifelong task. The return of her best friend becomes a solace to Mo Eum, especially since she just found the ideal superman reporter who seems way out of her reach.
Kang Dan Ho (Yoon Ji On)
Kang Dan Ho is a protective father and a dedicated reporter with impressive listening skills. despite a previous tragic accident, Dan Ho has strived to become the most responsible person. Nonetheless, the scars left a deep trauma that only a dedicated fairy could heal. His good nature lands him in the path of a potential fairy but Dan Ho is torn between his fatherly responsibilities and allowing the fairy to break him out of his shell of scars.
My thoughts
Just like its title, ‘Love Next Door’ drama is all about the possibility of finding love next door and the tension that comes with the possibility of forever losing a cherished bond. The intensity of feelings, both love and tension, in this drama will keep you on your toes the whole time. The actors owned their characters to the core bringing the storyline to life.
—-Karen Mwenda
#LoveNextDoor #koreandrama #kdrama #koreanactors #kcrushmindmap #mindmap #kpop #hallyu #kactors #YoonJiOn #KimJiEun #JungHaeIn #JungSoMin #kdramamindmap #kdramareview #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #kfashion
Former BTOB’s Ilhoon has been working hard to redeem himself from the 2020 drug controversy.
Ilhoon, who debuted in the entertainment industry in 2012 through BTOB boy band, has had his share of ups and downs over the last few years. Despite submitting about 88 self-reflection letters during his appeal process to plead for leniency, Ilhoon still received an imprisonment verdict. After faithfully paying his dues, Ilhoon is a free man courageously going against the norm and fighting to reclaim his glory.
Inspiration, Ilhoon’s Tiny Ark Exhibition
Upon his return, Ilhoon shared a heartfelt apology promising to live a better life. Despite the norm of cowing down after a controversy, Ilhoon took the bull by its horns and is now using his artistic talent to be a beacon of hope for others. Ilhoon opened his very first exhibition in Seoul early this month.
Titled ‘Tiny Ak’, this exhibition represented Ilhoon’s heart throughout his self-reflection period. The exhibition, held from the 4th to the 6th of October in Seungdong, Seoul, also showcases the artist’s unwavering love and respect for his fans. In a post during the exhibition, Ilhoon shared his heartfelt appreciation for all those who showed up. A more touching part was when he stated, “I was surprised that many people loved me more than I thought, and today is indeed a happy day that I will remember for the rest of my life”.
In addition to the exhibition, Ilhoon is also actively working hard to connect with fans through updated merchandise. The artist is selling various merchandise including t-shirts and photo books under the Tiny Ark brand. The merch was also available during the exhibition.
—-Karen Mwenda
#Ilhoon #BTOB #Ilhoonapology #Ilhoonmerchandise #kcrush #TinyArkExhibition #SeungdongSeoul #kpop #kpopidol #formeridol #IlhoonMJ #selfreflection #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #TinyArkBrand #Ilhoonreturns #IlhoonmjFans
T-ara’s Jiyeon and baseball player Hwang Jae Gyun have filed for divorce.
The couple, who walked down the aisle in December 2022 four months after publicly acknowledging their relationship, have filed for divorce and will be undergoing mediation soon. The divorce was confirmed by media outlet reports on October 5. Divorce rumors started early in June after a commentator’s on-air hint. This was further fueled by Jiyeon’s halting YouTube activities and Hwang’s drinking gathering with other women.
On October 5, both parties released statements regarding the divorce rumors. Jiyeon’s attorney stated that the couple agreed to divorce after a period of separation and confirmed that they had submitted a divorce mediation request at Seoul Family Court. Jiyeon also posted apologizing for the unpleasant news and asked for understanding from fans. Hwang also commented outlining that the two agreed to divorce after much consideration due to personality differences. He also added that the two will continue supporting and cheering for each other in their future endeavors.
—-Karen Mwenda
#Jiyeon #JiyeonDivorce #Hwang #TARAJiyeon #SeoulFamilyCourt #kcrush #HwangJaeGyun #koreanbaseballplayer #kpop #kpopidol #HwangJaeGyundivorce #korea #koreanpopidol #kcrushamerica #kcrushmagazine #breakingnews #koreannews
September was all about ‘Love Next Door’, ‘No Gain No Love’, and ‘DNA Lover’ among others. The month of October kicks in with new hot dramas that will keep you on your couches all day. Below are some of the k-dramas to binge on this October.
1. Spice Up Our Love
‘Spice Up Our Love’ is a fantasy romance K-drama revolving around the life of an R-rated web novelist. The novelist’s fantasy life turns to reality as she finds herself entangled in an unprecedented romance brew. Nam Ja Yeon (Han Ji Hyun) is no longer just a writer but lives to test the theory as fate molds her into a female lead striving to stay afloat against the protagonist Kang Ha Joon (Lee Sang Yi) in the sea of love.
2. Family By Choice
‘Family by Choice’ is a romantic comedy-drama based on the famous ‘Go Ahead’ Chinese drama. The story revolves around Kim San Ha (Hwang In Youp), Kang Hae Jun (Bae Hyeon Seong), and Yoon Ju Won (Jung Chae Yeon). This trio, who despite not being related by blood, spent most of their teen life living like a family. The story highlights their reunion as mature adults ten years later. The ensuing storyline is a mystery worth unraveling.
3. My Merry Marriage
‘My Merry Marriage’ is a romance comedy drama highlighting the ups and downs of marriage life. The drama revolves around two childhood friends of different backgrounds. Maeng Gong Hee (Park Ha Na), a contract fashion designer, finds herself in a love rollercoaster with Jayce Fashion’s heir, Gu Dan Soo (Park Sang Nam). A happy ending is a race against all odds as this young romance comes to terms with the reality of married life.
4. Doubt
‘Doubt’ is a psychological thriller drama about a father’s discovery of her daughter’s connection to a murder. Jang Tae Soo (Han Suk Kyu) is a top criminal profiler, who while on duty, discovers that his daughter Jang Ha Bin (Chae Won Bin) is a suspect in a murder case. The devoted officer’s life is shuttered into pieces as he is torn between loyalty to his country and his family.
5. Dongjae, The Good or the Bastard
‘The Good or the Bastard’ is a crime investigative thriller drama that revolves around Seo Dong Jae (Lee Jun Hyuk), a prosecutor struggling to redeem his reputation after a corruption incident. Despite the change of heart, his desire to do good is constantly cowed down by those threatened by his path. Whether Soe Dong Jae is ready to risk all he has or will eventually bow down to pressure is an ending worth looking forward to.
—-Karen Mwenda
#October2024KDramasToBinge #TheGoodortheBastard #LeeJunHyuk #thrillerdrama #kdrama #kcrush #koreandramas #koreanweeklydramas #Doubt #HanSukKyu #ChaeWonBin #MyMerryMarriage #ParkHaNa #ParkSangNam #kcrushnews #FamilyByChoice #HwangInYoup #BaeHyeonSeong #JungChaeYeon #SpiceUpOurLove #HanJiHyun #LeeSangYi #FantasyRomance #Thriller #RomanceComedy #upsanddownsofmarriedlife #romancenovalwriterdrama #TeentoAdultdrama
Actor Choi Tae Joon gave an honest perspective about his marriage life with the iconic actress, Park Shin Hye.
On October 2, Choi Tae Joon appeared on MBC’s ‘Radio Star’ alongside other reputable figures in the entertainment industry. On being asked about his marriage, Tae Joon started by clarifying that he had no intentions of interfering in another person’s work through his words. Nonetheless, the star went on to comment that the two acting gurus rarely talk about work but focus more on home and family-related matters.
In another instance, Tae Joon stated that he never peeks into his wife’s drama scripts beforehand. Just like other viewers, he waits until the works are released and watches them as any other viewer. Given he and Park Shin Hye have different personalities, Choi admitted that indeed fights are inevitable, just as with other couples and individuals. The couple walked down the aisle in January 2022 and were blessed with a baby boy in May 2022.
We want to wish them continued success with their careers, relationship and family life!
—-Karen Mwenda
#ChoiTaeJoon #ParkShinHye #marriedlifewithParkShinHye #babyboy #MBCRadioStarappearance #kactorrelationship #kdrama #ParkShinHyemarriage #kcrush #kcrushamerica #ParkShinHyeHusband #TrueLove #HallyuActorsBeingHappy #happyinlove
The undisputably reputable Loco has officially left AOMG agency after 10 years.
The rapper debuted through Jay Park’s AOMG agency in 2012. On October 3, AOMG posted on their social media platforms thanking LOCO for contributing to the company’s success and wishing him luck in his upcoming endeavors.
On the same day, Loco released the “SEE YOU” single through which he pours out his heart thanking AOMG for supporting and empowering him throughout the decade.
Over the years, Loco has become a powerhouse including winning several awards, releasing several OSTs, and even working as a producer in various notable projects. Loco adds to the list of other artists who recently graduated from AOMG including Woo Won Jae and Simon Dominic.
—-Karen Mwenda
#LOCO #AOMG #LOCOleavesAOMG #LocothanksAOMG #JayParkAOMG #LocoRnB #LOCORap #LOCOOST #kcrush #LOCOnewbeginnings #LOCOleavesAOMGater10years #wishinghimwell #kcrushamerica #kcrushamericamagazine #KoreanRaper #KoreanRnB #uptodaynews
Lisa’s unquenching closeness to Frédéric Arnault and his family as well as the global star’s latest “Moonlight Floor” hit have fueled rumors of the two being a couple.
Rumors of Lisa and Frédéric Arnault surfaced early last year after the two were seen hanging out in Paris. The rumors started holding water after the two global influencers posted pictures with similar backgrounds in August of last year.
Early in February, Lisa was spotted in Miami Beach alongside Frédéric Arnault’s brother and sister-in-law. On October 1, Lisa attended Louis Vuitton’s show at Paris Fashion Week and was spotted candidly conversing with Frédéric Arnault’s parents.
Lisa’s latest hit, “Moonlight Floor, ” fueled the relationship rumors,” which she performed at New York’s, Global Citizen Festival 2024 on September 28. Part of the song’s lyrics, including “Green-eyed French boy got me trippin'” and “How your skin is always soft, how your kisses always hit”, solidify the relationship rumors given Frédéric Arnault is French.
What are your thoughts?
—-Karen Mwenda
#BLACKPINK #LISABlackPink #Lisadating #FredericArnault #LouisVuitton #LouisVuittonHeirDatingLisa #kcrush #pop #kpop #MoonlightFloor #LisaMoonlightFloor #GlobalCitizenFestival2024 #NewYork #FrenchFredericArnault #breaking #LisaNews #BlackPinknews #relationshiprumorsLisa #kcrushamerica #kcrushamericamagazine #LouisVuttonParisShow